50 Cent defends 'perfectionist' Jackson

50 Cent has defended Michael Jackson's decision to postpone the opening of his forthcoming London gigs.

It was confirmed earlier this week that Jackson's residency at the capital's O2 arena would begin four days later than planned. According to concert promoters AEG, the star needed more time to rehearse for his stint.

Though fans have since launched an online petition in protest at the move, rapper 50 has insisted that the singer is acting in the best interests of his supporters.

Speaking to reporters at the Cannes Film Festival, he explained: "Michael Jackson is such a perfectionist, you know? He is the King of Pop. Until someone tops 'Thriller' he's going to have that, and the odds are it ain't gonna happen no time soon."

AEG recently dismissed reports that Jackson is suffering from skin cancer as "preposterous".